What is an intersectional approach to kink therapy?
An intersectional approach to kink therapy seeks to recognise that kink is not a monolithic or homogeneous experience, and that people who engage in kink come from diverse backgrounds and face intersecting forms of oppression and marginalization.
This approach sees that kink can be both a source of empowerment and a site of trauma and stigma, and that therapy needs to address both of these aspects in a nuanced and sensitive way.
An intersectional approach to kink therapy involves several key principles:
Cultural humility: Recognising that the therapist may not share the same experiences or cultural background as the client, and being open to learning from the client's perspective.
Trauma-informed care: a person may have experienced trauma (in any number of different environments and contexts) and being prepared to address it if it arises.
Anti-oppressive practice: kink intersects with other forms of oppression, such as racism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and fatphobia, and being aware of how these dynamics may affect the client's experiences.
Empowerment: kink can be a source of empowerment for many people, and being supportive of the client's exploration of their desires and boundaries.
Intersectional analysis: people who engage in kink come from diverse backgrounds and face intersecting forms of oppression and marginalization, and being sensitive to these dynamics in therapy.
An intersectional approach to kink therapy requires an open and non-judgmental attitude towards kink, a willingness to explore the client's desires and boundaries, and a commitment to working collaboratively with the client to address their concerns.
Therapists should be mindful and sensitive to the client's experiences of oppression and trauma, and work to empower the client to assert their boundaries and explore their desires in a safe and consensual way.
At Progressive Therapeutic Collective in Perth/Boorloo, we endeavour to view all of our therapeutic work through an intersectional lens.
We value a thoughtful, inclusive and mindful approach to supporting people.
We welcome the discussion and exploration of all things kink in our practice.